Phase 10 074 Science Report Final

GVI Costa Rica
Coastal Rainforest and Wildlife Expedition
Phase Report 074
11th October – 20th December 2007

GVI Costa Rica Coastal Rainforest and Wildlife Expedition Report
Submitted in whole to:

Global Vision International
The Canadian Organisation for Tropical Education and Rainforest Conservation
(COTERC)
Steven Furino, Waterloo University, Canada
Submitted in part to:

The Ministry of Environment and Energy of Costa Rica (MINAE)
Produced by
Rebeca Chaverri - Country Director
James Lewis - Expedition Manager
Julie Jackson - Expedition Staff
Jennifer Christie – Expedition Staff
David Jones – Expedition Staff
Manuel – Expedition Staff
Brooke McIntyre– Expedition Staff
Ryan Price – Expedition Intern
Charlotte Foale - Expedition Intern
Michael Andrew Horvath – Expedition Intern
And
Susanne Chan Expedition Member Stephanie McWhirter Expedition Member
Jillian Arnott Expedition Member Anne Reaney Expedition Member
Elena Manafi Expedition Member Cassandra Heath Expedition Member
Ashley Bamforth Expedition Member James Brooks Expedition Member
Matt Hall Expedition Member Katherine Wilson Expedition Member
Alex Doughty Expedition Member Yvonne Vazquez Expedition Member
Elizabeth Webster Expedition Member Rachel Moffat Expedition Member
Jessica Armistead Expedition Member Josued David Chavarria Expedition Member
Lindsey Klassen Expedition Member
Edited by
Britt Larsen - Regional Director
GVI Costa Rica Coastal Rainforest and Wildlife Expedition
Address: Estación Biológica Caño Palma, Tortuguero, Costa Rica

Tel: (+506) 709 8052
Email: Costa_rica@gvi.co.uk
Web page: http://www.gvi.co.uk

Executive Summary
The tenth 10-week phase, phase 074, of the Global Vision International (GVI) Costa
Rica Coastal Rainforest and Wildlife Expedition has now been completed. The
expedition, based at Estación Biológica Caño Palma (EBCP), has continued to work
towards the gathering of important environmental scientific data whilst working with local,
national and international partners and has maintained working relationships with local
communities through both English classes and local community events. The following
projects were conducted during phase 074:
• Jaguar Predation on Marine Turtles. In collaboration with the Costa Rica Ministry of
Environment and Energy (MINAE).
• Camera Trapping in Tortuguero National Park (TNP). In collaboration with MINAE.
• Marine Turtle Monitoring Programme. In collaboration with the Canadian
Organization for Tropical Education and Rainforest Conservation (COTERC), MINAE
and the Caribbean Conservation Corporation (CCC).
• EBCP Resident Bird Project. In collaboration with Steven Furino, Waterloo
University, Canada.
• Tourist Impact Assessment on Caño Palma canal.
• Local Reforestation Project. In collaboration with COTERC.
• EBCP Incidental species recording.
• English Language Lessons. In collaboration with the San Francisco community and
Tortuguero Canopy.
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary ........................................................................................................ 3

1 Introduction.............................................................................................................. 7
2 Jaguar Predation on Marine Turtles ....................................................................... 10
2.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 10
2.2 Aim ................................................................................................................ 11
2.3 Methodology .................................................................................................. 11
2.3.1 Study Site............................................................................................... 11
2.3.2 Data Collection ....................................................................................... 12
2.4 Results........................................................................................................... 14
2.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 18
Camera Trapping .......................................................................................................... 22
2.6 Introduction .................................................................................................... 22
2.7 Aim ................................................................................................................ 22
2.8 Methodology .................................................................................................. 23
2.8.1 Study site ............................................................................................... 23
2.8.2 Location of cameras ............................................................................... 23
2.8.3 Setting the cameras ............................................................................... 23
2.8.4 Checking the cameras............................................................................ 24
2.8.5 Data entering and analysis ..................................................................... 24
2.9 Results........................................................................................................... 25
2.10 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 25
3 Marine Turtle Monitoring and Conservation Programme ........................................ 25
3.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 25
3.2 Aim ................................................................................................................ 27
3.3 Methodology .................................................................................................. 27
3.3.1 Study site ............................................................................................... 27
3.3.2 Pre-season preparations ........................................................................ 28
3.3.3 Daily track census and nest surveys ...................................................... 29
3.3.4 Night surveys ......................................................................................... 29
3.3.5 Nest fate, nest survivorship and hatching success ................................. 30
3.3.6 Disguising nests ..................................................................................... 31
3.3.7 Collection of human impact data ............................................................ 32
3.4 Results........................................................................................................... 32
4 EBCP Resident Bird Project .................................................................................. 32
4.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 32
4.2 Aim ................................................................................................................ 32
4.3 Methodology .................................................................................................. 33
4.4 Results........................................................................................................... 35
4.4.1 Survey data ............................................................................................ 35
4.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 39
5 Tourist Impact Survey Caño Palma ....................................................................... 41
5.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 41
5.2 Aims .............................................................................................................. 41
5.3 Methodology .................................................................................................. 42
5.4 Results........................................................................................................... 43
5.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 45
6 Reforestation ......................................................................................................... 46
6.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 46
4
6.2 Aim ................................................................................................................ 47
6.3 Methodology .................................................................................................. 47
6.3.1 Seed collection ....................................................................................... 47
6.3.2 Sapling collection ................................................................................... 47
6.3.3 Bagging seeds and saplings................................................................... 48
6.3.4 Nursery maintenance ............................................................................. 48
6.4 Results........................................................................................................... 48
6.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 49
7 EBCP Incidentals................................................................................................... 49
7.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 49
7.2 Aim ................................................................................................................ 50
7.3 Methodology .................................................................................................. 50
7.4 Results........................................................................................................... 50
7.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 51
8 Mammal Monitoring Project ................................................................................... 52
8.1 Introduction .................................................................................................... 52
8.2 Aims .............................................................................................................. 53
8.2.1 General objective ................................................................................... 53
8.2.2 Specific objectives .................................................................................. 53
8.3 Methodology .................................................................................................. 53
8.3.1 Transect set up ...................................................................................... 54
8.3.2 Main study.............................................................................................. 54
8.3.3 Data recorded ........................................................................................ 54
8.4 Results........................................................................................................... 55
8.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 56
9 Teaching Community Report ................................................................................. 56
9.1 Introduction to English Teaching .................................................................... 56
9.2 Introduction to Environmental Education ........................................................ 57
9.3 Aims .............................................................................................................. 57
9.4 Methods ......................................................................................................... 57
9.4.1 Training .................................................................................................. 57
9.4.2 Teaching ................................................................................................ 58
9.4.3 Results ................................................................................................... 59
9.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 60
10 References ............................................................................................................ 64
11 Appendices............................................................................................................ 69
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List of Figures
Figure 2-1 Spatial distribution of jaguar tracks, jaguar high activity areas, turtle
carcasses, and full green turtle tracks (x10) along the 14.5 miles of beach in Tortuguero
National Park, Costa Rica. ............................................................................................ 14
Figure 2-2 Number of turtle carcasses, full green turtle tracks (x 50 for scale), jaguar
tracks and jaguar high activity zones per survey between 20 October and 8 December,
2007, Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica. Survey number four ended early due to
adverse weather and was not included.......................................................................... 16
Figure 2-3 Number of turtle carcasses, full green turtle tracks (x50 for scale), jaguar
tracks and jaguar high activity areas recorded per week of the year between 20 October
and 8 December, 2007, Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica. Turtle carcasses are
classified by estimated week of death. Complete surveys were conducted during weeks
42-44 and 47-49. The survey conducted suring week 46 ended early due to adverse
weather and was therefore omitted. .............................................................................. 17
Figure 2-4 Proportion of turtle carcasses and the vertical position they were found in
(Open, Border or Vegetation) between 20 October and 8 December, 2007, Tortuguero
Figure 4-1 Total number of species and surveys on the aquatic trails entrance, Caño
Chiquero, Caño Harold and Caño Palma, Costa Rica. .................................................. 36
Figure 4-2 Key species recorded per survey on Caño Chiquero aquatic trail, Tortuguero
Figure 4-3 Key species recorded per survey on Caño Harold aquatic trail, Tortuguero
List of Tables
Table 5-1 Boat use restriction on Cano Palma, Tortuguero, Costa Rica. ....................... 41
6
1 Introduction
Global Vision International (GVI) was formed in 1998 to provide support and services to
international charities, non-profits and governmental agencies, through volunteering
opportunities and direct funding. GVI is guided by a unique commitment to its volunteers
and to its partners. To the volunteer it offers a safe responsible travel experiences,
exceptional training and career development opportunities, and facilitates the ability to
make a real difference. To its partners it commits all research ownership rights and all
work is undertaken fully under their direction, in conjunction with the local community. In
July 2006 GVI established the Costa Rica expedition based at the Cano Palma
Biological Station, Tortuguero.
The biological station is located in the southern section of the Barra del Collarado
Wildlife Refuge directly to the north of Tortuguero National Park (TNP). The area of
operation for the expedition covers both Tortuguero National Park and the Barra del
Collardo Wildlife Refuge, this area is collectively known as ACTo. The area consist of a
collection of waterways running through Caribbean slope rainforest. The coastal habitats
are generally similar in type with small variation in boarding habitats, width of the beach
and quanitity and type of debris found on the beach. The forest habitats vary more
considerably with several distinct habitats being present. Altitudinal differences of a
couple metres have a large effect on both habitat and species composition in the area.
Lower areas, such as those found around the station, tend have large areas of flooded
forest whereas the drier areas associated to the national park tend to only be submerged
during times of flooding. Within ACTo there are also areas containing hills, and although
these are not particularly high they do provide a very specific type of habitat. The
ecological importance of the ACTo area has been recognized for some time; however
the level of active research has been minimal aside from the world renowned turtle
studies.
The Cano Palma Biological Station (EBCP) was purchased in 1991 by the Canadian
Organization for Tropical Education and Rainforest Conservation (COTERC). The
station’s research was intended to focus on terrestrial ecology studies leaving the
monitoring of the turtle population to the Caribbean Conservation Corpareation (CCC).
Prior to GVI’s arrival a number of studies had been undertaken looking at various
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species and habitats but no longer term large scale monitoring projects had been
possible.
GVI’s volunteer resource made long term studies possible and partnerships were
sourced and needs assessed. Several partnerships have been developed and new
partners are continually source. Currently GVI is working closely with the Costa Rican
Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), COTERC, Waterloo University, the local
community of San Francisco and the CCC.
Along with the individual needs of partners, GVI aims to meet several of its own aims
when undertaking work in an area. These aims are:
• Document biodiversity of the area

• Increase scientific knowledge
• Encourage scientific interest in the area
• Increase community awareness and capacity building
• Support sustainable development.
The Tortuguero area has been of strong interest to the scientific community since Archie
Carrs studies of the Marine Turtles of the Tortuguero beaches during the 1950’s. Archie
Carr highlighted the importance of this stretch of coast for green turtles (Chelonia
mydas) and as a result of his work the Tortuguero National Park was established in
1975. Being a large charismatic species, turtle tend to attract both researches and
tourists, data collected by MINAE has shown a steady increase in the number of visitors
each year to Tortugero. Although many visitors come specifically to see the turtles many
people also visit the Tortuguero National Park for its canals and abundant wildlife. Often
referred to as the Amazon of Costa Rica, Tortuguero offers visitors a chance to view
wildlife from both boats and on foot.
As tourism has increased so has job availability and as a result the population of
Tortuguero has increased and new settlements have developed. The most significantly
has been the establishment of the San Francisco community. San Francisco began its
history as a home to a few families in 1989. It wasn’t until 2000 that the population
began to increase more significantly. Now San Franciso is home to 274 people and this
number is continueing to increase (Van Odenhoven 2007).
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The impact of this human presence is becoming more obvious within ACTo. Lodges are
needing to expand and as a result they are consuming more forested areas; new homes
are being built for the workers of these hotels and associated industries; and an increase
in demand for building materials and general goods is resulting increased use of the
canals. Areas that had previously not been visited by tourist are now beginning to open
up and although some limits are being put in place to control tourist numbers in certain
locations, many areas are uncontrolled and not monitored.
The projects currently being run by GVI in ACTo aim to help raise awareness of the
effect these changes are having on the environment. This is being done in numerous
ways some of which have a direct effect on the conservation of the area whilst others
have longer term educational benefits.
This report briefly looks at the work undertaken during Phase 074, the aim of this report
is to present an outline of the specific aims, methodologies and results gained during this
period. In some cases, such as the turtle monitoring programme, season reports are
produced and therefore no results have been included. In addition to this report, a year
report is produced annually presenting in more detail findings from the year and in some
cases comparing to previous years work.
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2 Jaguar Predation on Marine Turtles
2.1 Introduction
Tortuguero National Park (TNP), located along the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, is the
most important nesting ground for the Atlantic population of green turtles (Chelonia
mydas) (Bass et al., 1998). In addition to the green turtle a significant number of
leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) as well as the occasional hawksbill
(Eretmochelys imbricata) and loggerhead (Caretta caretta) turtles nest in TNP (Haro &
Harrison 2006). The nesting turtle population has been monitored on the park’s beach
since 1955 (Carr 1980, Carr & Carr 1972) and it continues to be monitored today by the
Caribbean Conservation Corporation (CCC).
The only animals that are known to kill adult marine turtles are sharks, killer whales, and
jaguars (Hirth, 1997; Oritz et al., 1997 cited by Troëng 2000). Because of this, any turtle
carcasses on the beach that showed no signs of being poached were presumed to have
been killed by a jaguar. Nevertheless, information on jaguar (Panthera onca) predation
of marine turtles is sparse, but has been recorded sporadically in many areas of the
world, although the first records appear to come from Suriname, where 82 green turtles
were identified as being predated by jaguars from 1963-1973 and Koford (1983)
mentions that jaguars prey on marine turtles in this country, although no specific species
are mentioned. On the same beach in 1980 one individual jaguar killed 13 turtles within
only a few days (Autar, 1994).
On the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, jaguars have been recorded preying upon olive ridley
(Lepidochelys olivacea), black (Chelonia mydas agassizii), and hawksbill turtles (Carillo
et al., 1994, Chinchilla, 1997). Although much research has been carried out on turtles in
TNP, from 1956 to 1995 only two green turtles were recorded as killed by jaguars, one in
1981 and another in 1984 (J. Mortimer pers. comm. in Troëng 2000).
Information on turtles predated by jaguars was included on the CCC’s weekly track
census starting in 1997(Troëng 1997, Troëng et al. 1999). The CCC found four green
turtles killed by jaguars in their first year of data collection, counting every jaguar
predated turtle carcass encountered (Troëng 1997). Turtles were considered killed by
jaguars if they were surrounded by jaguar tracks or had characteristic jaguar injuries as
described in Aranda-Sánchez (1981). For the following two years only fresh kills, i.e.
10
killed within the last 24 hours, were recorded. In 1998, 25 dead green turtles were found
and in 1999, 22 green turtles and two leatherback turtles were found (Troëng, 2000).
In 2002 Magally Castro Alvarez, in conjunction with the Costa Rican Ministry of
Environment and Energy (MINAE) began a study on the predation of marine turtles by
jaguars in TNP, recording all kills - both fresh and old. In 2002, 60 turtle carcasses were
encountered, and 65 in 2003 (M. Castro Alvarez, pers. comm.). Though predation upon
turtles by jaguars is not a new phenomenon, data suggest that it has increased in the
past ten years within TNP (Troëng, 2000; M. Castro Alvarez, pers. comm.). This
apparent increase may however be due to changes in data collection methods. The
earliest study primarily counted only fresh carcasses with evidence of jaguar predation,
while the latter studies have considered all carcasses with no contrary evidence to be
jaguar predated. Thus, several years of consistent data collection methods would
provide the most accurate rate of change.
Due to a lack of human resources, MINAE invited Global Vision International (GVI) to
continue data collection on jaguar presence and predation of marine turtles in TNP. Data
collection has been conducted by GVI since 11th July 2005, modeling protocols after
those used by MINAE, adapted to our aims and resources. The study has found 60 turtle
carcasses from July to December 2005 and 131 turtles in all of 2006. This data, in
addition to the data previously collected by MINAE, is being used to develop a more
comprehensive understanding of jaguar impact on the nesting marine turtle population of
TNP, potentially aiding in management and conservation decisions.
2.2 Aim
This project aims to document the magnitude of jaguar predation on the nesting
population of marine turtles and increase knowledge of jaguar ecology in Tortuguero
National Park. This information can be used to help MINAE develop management
strategies which benefit both the turtles and the jaguars.
2.3 Methodology
2.3.1 Study Site
The beach of TNP, which contains the study area, is 18 miles long, (approximately 29
kilometers), and extends from the Tortuguero River mouth on the Northern end of the
11
beach to the Jalova River mouth at the Southern end. The park is managed by ACTo
(Area de Conservación Tortuguero) under MINAE – the Costa Rican Ministry of
Environment and Energy.
The study area is marked as mile 3½ at the south end of Tortuguero village and mile 18
at the Jalova river mouth. The length of the beach is divided and marked with mile
markers from at every 1/8 of a mile (approximately 200 meters) until mile five, and is
marked at every ½ mile thereafter. The mile markers run in ascending order from mile
zero at the Tortuguero River mouth to mile 18 at the Jalova river mouth.
As previously mentioned, the study site begins at the south end of Tortuguero village, a
growing touristic town of approximately 1,000 residents. During the leatherback and
green turtle nesting seasons, there is a high level of tourist activity at night, between mile
0 and mile five, and the CCC run nightly surveys covering this section of the beach as
well. At the South end of the study site is a large cattle and coconut farm, and a few local
residents live just South of the river mouth and National Park border.
2.3.2 Data Collection
Surveys were conducted over the 14.5 mile stretch of beach beginning at dawn,
alternating between a north start at mile 3½ and a south start at mile 18 when feasible.
At least four researchers conducted the survey once per week during the survey period,
when possible. General data, namely date, name of researchers, and start time, were
noted at the beginning of the survey. In addition to this, sand condition, general weather
data, and beach width were recorded every four miles (mile markers 4, 8, 12, and 16).
During the survey, researchers recorded the total number of fresh turtle tracks (from the
previous night) on the beach, including both half moons (i.e. not nested) and full tracks
(i.e. nested). It should be noted that during the peak of the green turtle season (late June
to September) these numbers may contain some error due to the high numbers of turtle
tracks present on the beach. During leatherback turtle season, the species of turtle is
distinguished, but during green turtle season all tracks are reorded as green turtles. The
other species (hawksbill and loggerhead) are so few in comparison to greens that the
statistical difference during analysis is not significant.
12
When fresh jaguar tracks were encountered, the direction of the track (North or South)
and location (distance from Northern mile marker and GPS coordinates) were recorded.
It was also noted whether the track was a clear entrance or exit point or was
encountered in the middle of the beach. When the track was lost and no trace of the
track was seen within 200m the mile marker and GPS coordinates were noted. The
researchers also noted whether the tracks were simply lost or if there was a clear
entrance or exit point to or from the beach. This information is used to help determine
common routes jaguars use to access the beach. Both daily and seasonal weather
conditions, such as intense and prolonged rain, sun exposure, high winds and tidal
movement influence the visibility of jaguar prints, therefore affecting the data collected.
Some areas with jaguar tracks are classified as “high activity”. These are defined as
sections of the beach with more than 4 tracks, over which it would be difficult to
distinguish between tracks.
The following data were collected on turtle carcasses that showed signs of jaguar
predation, i.e. bite marks, drag marks, or jaguar prints near the carcass:
• Species
• Turtle ID number (assigned at time of encounter)
• Location (distance from Northern mile marker and GPS coordinates)
• Location of carcass relative to the vegetation
• Estimated point of attack (only for fresh kills)
• Parts of turtle eaten (only for fresh kills)
• Estimated number of nights since kill (determined by signs of decay)
• Curved carapace length (CCL) and curved carapace width (CCW), when possible
• Whether the turtle was resting on its plastron or carapace
• Any tag numbers if tags are present
• Any other comments/observations
A photograph was taken a few meters from each turtle, including any vegetation in the
background to distinguish its position. Photographs of anything else relevant to the
carcass and track data were also taken.
For further and more specific methodologies see the GVI Jaguar Predation on Marine
Turtles Protocol.
13
2.4 Results
A total of eight surveys were conducted between 20th October and 8th December, 2007
(phase 074). The average duration of the survey was eight hours and 13 minutes. The
longest survey was completed in ten hours and the shortest in six hours and 29 minutes.
Since 11th July 2005 a total of 94 surveys have been conducted by GVI.
Phase 074 coincided with the end of the green turtle season. Figure 2-1 shows the data
collected per half mile of the beach during the course of phase 074. A total of 39
carcasses were observed, all of which were green turtles. Many of the carcasses were
attacked at the neck and/or dragged by the neck into the vegetation. Estimated green
turtle activity for this phase totalled 63 half moons and 1,579.5 full track sets. In addition
to 10 areas of high jaguar activity, 41 jaguar tracks were recorded.
Phase 074 Data Per Half Mile
10
0
11
.5
4
10
.5
12
.5
13
.5
14
.5
15
.5
16
.5
17
.5
5
5
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
11
10
12
13
14
15
16
17
Mile Marker
Turtle Carcasses Jaguar Tracks Jaguar High Activity Full Green Turtle Tracks x10
Figure 2-1 Spatial distribution of jaguar tracks, jaguar high activity areas, turtle carcasses, and full
green turtle tracks (x10) along the 14.5 miles of beach in Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica.
14
Phase 074 Data per Survey
25
20
15
10
0
1 2 3 5 6 7
Survey
Jaguar Tracks Jaguar High Activity Full Turtle Tracks x50 Turtle Carcasses
Figure 2-2 shows data observed per survey. The average number of green turtle tracks
was 262.66 per survey, with the highest concentration of full turtle tracks during the first
three surveys. Turtle carcasses averaged 6.5 per survey, and were observed on three
surveys. The final turtle carcas was observed on 3rd November. When only including
surveys in which turtle carcasses and turtle tracks were observed, the averages were
393.75 tracks per survey and 13 carcasses per survey. The highest number of jaguar
tracks was observed during survey seven, and the average number of tracks per survey
was 6.83. The average number of jaguar high activity areas per survey was 1.67, and
the greatest number of high activity areas was observed during survey seven.
15
Phase 074 Data per Survey
25
20
15
10
0
1 2 3 5 6 7
Survey
Figure 2-2 Number of turtle carcasses, full green turtle tracks (x 50 for scale), jaguar tracks and
jaguar high activity zones per survey between 20 October and 8 December, 2007, Tortuguero
National Park, Costa Rica. Survey number four ended early due to adverse weather and was not
included.
Figure 2-3 shows the incidence of turtle carcasses, full turtle tracks, jaguar tracks and
jaguar high activity zones per week of the year. The turtle carcasses were classified
based upon estimated week of death. The highest jaguar activity (number of tracks and
high activity areas) was recorded during week 49 on 18th December. The greatest
number of turtle tracks were recorded during week 43 and turtle deaths peaked during
week 41.
16
Phase 074 Data per Week of the Year
25
20
15
10
0
41 42 43 44 47 48 49
Week
Figure 2-3 Number of turtle carcasses, full green turtle tracks (x50 for scale), jaguar tracks and
jaguar high activity areas recorded per week of the year between 20 October and 8 December, 2007,
Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica. Turtle carcasses are classified by estimated week of death.
Complete surveys were conducted during weeks 42-44 and 47-49. The survey conducted suring
week 46 ended early due to adverse weather and was therefore omitted.
31%
36%
Open
Border
Vegetation
33%
17
Figure 2-4 Proportion of turtle carcasses and the vertical position they were found in (Open,
Border or Vegetation) between 20 October and 8 December, 2007, Tortuguero National Park, Costa
Rica.
Of the turtle carcasses found, the majority (36%) were recorded in the Open. 33% were
recorded in the Border and 31% were in the Vegetation.
2.5 Discussion
The total number of turtle carcasses observed during phase 074 was 39. Based upon
estimated time of death and photographic evidence, 22 turtles were predated upon by
jaguars during this phase. The tracks of 1,653 turtles, including 1,589.5 full tracks and 63
half-moons, were observed during the study period. Although the incidence of turtles
being killed by jaguars appears to be increasing, it still remains a small proportion of the
total number of nesting turtles being affected.
33% of the turtle carcasses were recorded in the vegetation. It is likely that the
proportion of turtle carcasses recorded is higher as carcasses in the vegetation may
have been missed during heavy rain or simply have been hidden from the surveyors
view. For future reference it would be interesting to find out the proportion of dead turtles
that are being recorded in the vegetation in order to get a clearer picture of jaguar
predatory behavior.
During phase 074 there was evidence of jaguar activity extending almost the entire
length of the study site (mile 3.5 to mile 18). The highest number of jaguar tracks were
found between miles 9 and 9.5. There were many locations on the beach which had
several sets of tracks simultaneously present; this may have been due to either multiple
individuals or a single individual traversing the same area multiple times. The majority of
tracks were located in the middle of the beach, although a few entrances and exits
where jaguars presumably left the beach and returned to the forest were also observed.
The spatial pattern of jaguar tracks did not directly follow the spatial pattern of turtle
tracks. There was also no observable relationship between the number of turtle tracks
per half mile and turtle carcasses per half mile, suggesting that jaguars were not
preferentially using the areas of the beach with the highest level of turtle nesting activity.
Neither was there a relationship between the number of jaguar tracks and turtle
18
carcasses per half mile. This suggests that jaguars may be using the beach as hunting
grounds for other prey and are not patrolling the beach specifically for marine turtles. Or,
it is possible that because green turtles are so abundant on Tortugero Beach, that
jaguars are not necessarily preying upon every nesting turtle encountered, this is
supported by findings in Troëng, 2000.
Jaguars prey upon a wide variety of animals, more than 85 species have been reported
as forming part of its diet (Seymour 1989, Carrillo et al., 1994). Many of the prey species
were sighted during surveys both on the beach and in the bordering forest including the
white-nosed coati (Nasua narica), black river turtles (Rhinoclemmys funerea), spider
monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi), mantled howler monkeys (Aloutata palliatte), green iguanas
(Iguana iguana), great curassows (Crax rubra), ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), red brocket
deer (Mazama americana), tayra (Eira barbara), and white-lipped peccary (Tayassu
pecari). Therefore jaguars may be on the beach in search of any prey species and not
exclusively turtles.
The observable differences in frequency of jaguar tracks near to the Tortuguero and
Jalova ends of the beach could have been due to the survey methods used. The surveys
started from Tortuguero for the duration of the phase. Ideally, the surveys would have
started from the Tortuguero and Jalova ends of the beach an equal number of times
because tracks found later in the day may be faded, washed away, or difficult to observe
by the time they are.recorded. It is also possible that there is a difference in the level of
jaguar presence on the two ends of the survey site. This could be due to several factors
such as differences in the natural geography of the two ends of the beach, differences in
the amount of undisturbed habitat or due to the increasing amount of human presence
around miles 3½ and 18.
Jaguar tracks were observed every week of the study period, as were green turtle tracks
and carcasses. Although the number of green turtle tracks and turtle carcasses
decreased throughout the study period, the number of jaguar tracks did not follow a
similar pattern (Figure 2.2). This suggests that jaguars are possible not nincreasing their
use of the beach as hunting grounds when a greater number of turtles were nesting as
has been observed in TNP by Troëng (2000) in previous years of jaguar predation
studies (1997, 1998, and 1999). The peak of turtle tracks observed during survey two is
most likely due to an error in data collection during which older tracks were counted.
19
Beach conditions affected the data collection during this phase. Some surveys were
completed during hot, dry conditions, which often caused both jaguar and turtle tracks to
fade in the sand before data could be collected. Such conditions could either erase the
tracks completely or make them appear too old to be recorded. Heavy rain recorded
during a few surveys could also have caused tracks to disintegrate. Rain may have also
made it more difficult to detect by smell any dead turtles that were in the vegetation. No
survey was conducted during week 45 due to a flood evacuation, and the survey
conducted during week 46 (17th November) was ended early due to heavy rains (also
leading to a flood).
The only animals that are known to kill adult marine turtles are crocodiles, sharks, killer
whales and jaguars (Hirth, 1997; Oritz et al., 1997). Because of this, any turtle carcasses
on the beach that showed no signs of human impact were alleged to have been
preadated upon by a jaguar. Previously collected data in TNP has shown that jaguars
consume only a small proportion of turtle flesh. In most cases of jaguar predation of
marine turtles previously observed in TNP, and consistent with the current data solely a
chunk of flesh from the neck was consumed (Troëng, 2000).
All turtle carcasses observed during the study period showed evidence of the neck being
targeted and little flesh being consumed. There are several accounts of Jaguars preying
upon smaller chelonians where the plastron and carapace have been torn apart or the
flesh was scooped out between the plastron and the carapace (Emmons, 1989). Despite
sightings of river turtle tracks on the beach and other small chelonians in the bordering
vegetation no evidence of this kind of feeding pattern has been recorded in TNP.The
carapace and plastron of green turtles are extremely hard, although jaguars have an
unusually large head and powerful jaw (Emmons, 1989) and findings of skull penetration
have been recorded, it is unlikely jaguars would expend energy opening the hard shell
and risk damaging their canines (Emmons, 1989). This, however, does not explain why
such little exposed flesh is consumed. It is hypothesized that jaguars exert such a small
amount of energy killing turtles that little flesh is required to replace the total energy
expenditure of the kill (M. Castro Alvarez, pers. comm.; Carrillo, pers. comm.).
Unlike terrestrial or freshwater turtles, marine turtles lack the ability to retract their heads,
thus exposing a prime, stationary target for the opportunistic jaguar. Another hypothesis
suggests that turtles may be used as a training tool for jaguar cubs. (Schaller 1972,
20
Carrillo, pers. comm.). Whether, this is the case in TNP it cannot be concluded. Juvenile
tracks have been sighted alongside adult tracks, but it is unclear how many there are in
TNP at present and whether they have predated upon any marine turtles or not.
Though the number of marine turtles being killed in TNP by jaguars is clearly increasing,
more years of consistent data collection are needed in order to draw conclusions about
the reasons behind this trend. It is also important to note that according to the number of
nesting turtles recorded in Tortuguero, it is unlikely that jaguar predation is significantly
affecting its numbers (Troëng, 2000).
There are several possible hypotheses concerning this trend, one being that the local
jaguar population size may be increasing (Troëng, 2000). The factors responsible for
changes in any jaguar population will vary regionally due to differences in habitat, prey
availability, economic development, and cultural attitudes (Quigley & Crawshaw, 1990).
But a lees positive explanation could also be true, that human encroachment around
TNP is increasing in the form of deforestation for agriculture and that cattle farming may
be influencing jaguar populations. This, in addition to a possible hunting pressure in
Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge and the Indio-Maiz region of Nicaragua, may have
caused the jaguar population to become more concentrated in the TNP area, thus
causing an increase in observed turtle predation instances (Troëng, 2000).
Another possibility is that changes in jaguar behaviour and habits are contributing to the
increased turtle predation, rather than a change in the jaguar population size or
concentration. The poaching of other jaguar prey may have caused a heavier reliance on
marine turtles as a source of food, considering their plentiful supply during the nesting
season. Although a possibility, this does not provide an explanation for the high number
of jaguar tracks on the beach when there were very few to no turtles coming ashore to
nest. It is clear that further observation on jaguar predation of marine turtles in TNP and
research is needed before any conclusions can be drawn.
21
Camera Trapping
2.6 Introduction
The jaguar (Panthera onca) is the third largest felid in the world and the largest in all of
North and South America (Silver, 2004). Its range spans from the Southwestern United
States of America (USA) to Northern Argentina (Seymour, 1989). However, the current
range is less than 50% what it was in 1900 (Sanderson et al., 2002b), ranging from
northern Mexico to northern Argentina and are considered threatened across much of
this range (Aranda 2000, Sanderson et al., 2002).
The jaguar is an elusive animal that has been hunted greatly in the past for its pelt
(Weber & Rabinowitz 1996). In 1968 alone, more than 13,000 pelts were imported to the
USA (NatureServe, 2006). Today however the major threats to the jaguar are illegal
hunting, prey depletion, and habitat destruction and fragmentation (Silver et al., 2004,
Miller & Rabinowitz 2002). Scientists have started to focus on a range-wide approach to
the conservation of the species. However, in order to aid future conservation initiatives of
the species a greater understanding of jaguar population dynamics is needed
(Sanderson et al. 2002).
Little is known about the population of jaguars in Tortuguero National Park. The National
Park guards have seen jaguars on numerous occasions and have estimated that there
are six to eight individuals currently using the beach. GVI has initiated the use of
cameras to estimate the population size of jaguars in TNP. In the future, the information
could potentially be used for a population study by identifying individuals and using
mark/recapture models. . Cameras have been used before to study secretive carnivore
species such as tiger (Panthera tigris) populations in India (Karanth & Nichols 1998,
Karanth & Nichols 2000, Karanth et al., 2004), and jaguar populations in the Neotropics
(Silver 2004, Silver et al., 2004, Salom-Pérez et al., 2007). We have adopted similar
methods as used by Silver et al., (2004) and are currently undertaking field trials.
2.7 Aim
The aim of this project is to estimate the minimum number of jaguars using the coastal
habitat inside Tortuguero National Park. This requires the identification of individual
22
animals. In order to achieve this aim the objectives are 1) to determine the areas where
jaguars are present, 2) to record their hours of activity and other habits, 3) to compare
jaguar activity at different sites along the coastal forest.
2.8 Methodology
2.8.1 Study site
TNP beach is described in detail in section 2.3.1. There is a trail parallel to the beach
running from mile zero to mile 15. Along the trail close to Tortuguero there are many
paths that lead to the beach, slowly becoming more dispersed the further South you
travel. Tourists use the trail between miles zero and six frequently during green turtle
season (June to November). During off-season tourists and local people use the trail
much less.
2.8.2 Location of cameras
Camera sites were selected in the forest along the edge of the TNP beach based upon
data collected by GVI on location and number of jaguar tracks and marine turtle
carcasses predated by jaguars. This data has been recorded for over a year during
Jaguar Predation on Marine Turtles surveys (See section 2. Jaguar Predation on Marine
Turtles for a description of the data collected and results from Phase 074 ). Many factors
were considered before selecting a camera site such as jaguar and human presence,
vegetation cover, trail width, and indirect sunlight. Ideally, the cameras are placed no
more than two miles apart, minimizing the possibility of unmonitored area for a jaguar to
pass through. When possible, cameras were placed on trails that are not used often by
humans, in order to avoid theft and photos of humans.
2.8.3 Setting the cameras
The cameras used were motion-activated Stealth Cam Model MC2-GWMV. The
cameras were set up off the trail, in a location where a jaguar might be expected to pass.
Trapping stations of two cameras per site were used, one camera was set on the time
function and the other one on the date function. Since the purpose is to use the animal’s
flanks for identifications, both sides must be pictured (Silver et al., 2004, Karanth &
Nichols 2000). Cameras were secured to trees two to four meters apart, at a height of
30-60 cm above the ground (Silver et al, 2004).
23
The Stealth Cams have a time-out function. This means they can be programmed to
pause from one to 60 minutes between motion detection. Determining an appropriate
amount of time depends on the level of activity in the given location. This function was
set for one minute, in order to “capture” as many animals as possible within a short
period of time.
The cameras also have a continuous capture feature. The cameras can be programmed
to take between one and nine pictures each time motion is detected. During this stage of
the study, most of the cameras were set to take three photos each time motion was
detected. As problems with the winding of film have been encountered, some cameras
were set to take one photo per activation instead of three.
Once a location was chosen, the camera was secured to a tree trunk using a strap. The
cameras were directed at each other and sticks were used to adjust the angle of the
camera sight to 30 to 60 cm from the ground. After setting the cameras, a tampon or
silica gel packet was placed inside the camera case to absorb moisture, and silicone
sealant used to close all seams and prevent water from entering. A few drops of feline
bait, Wildcat #2, was placed on a log between the cameras in an attempt to attract any
jaguars in the area to the exact camera location.
2.8.4 Checking the cameras
The cameras were checked at least once every two weeks to change the film and/or
batteries if necessary and ensure they were still functioning correctly. When several
photos had been taken (minimum of 9 non-test photos), or the cameras were non-
functional, they were removed and replaced. The film was then removed in a dark room
in order to prevent any overexposure when films did not completely rewind. All films
were labelled with the camera location, name and date.
2.8.5 Data entering and analysis
The following was recorded for each camera site: site number, nearest mile marker or
trail marker, GPS coordinates, date first installed.
The following information was recorded when a camera site was checked, installed or
removed: site number, date, team initials, camera numbers, number of photos on each
24
camera, actions taken with each camera, problems encountered, and any other relevant
information (e.g. three photos were taken of team while checking site).
2.9 Results
During phase 074 cameras were set up at eight sites. All of these sites were new. The
sites were centered closer to Tortuguero and a trail at mile 15, as these two areas were
more easily accessible for checking the cameras. Not all camera sites were used for the
entirety of the survey period. All of the nine fuctioning cameras were used at least once.
Many problems arose with all of the cameras used in the study. Problems included the
film not winding on, the LCD screens functioning incorrectly, the LCD screens flashing
on and off, the camera taking the incorrect number of pictures, and the motion sensors
not activating. 7 rolls of film were developed, none of which contained jaguar photos.
2.10 Discussion
The photos from phase 074 did not include jaguars, although a great curassow (Crax
rubra) was photographed on one roll. The cameras were activated several other times,
but it is not clear why. Some possible reasons include that the cameras reacted to
changes in light filtering through the canopy or wind movement of vegetation, that the
time between activation and shutter release was too long, allowing an animal to pass
and not be photographed, or that the problems with film winding prohibited the camera
from taking photos at all.
As more data has been collected, much has been learned about site selection and
camera operation. As such, methods continue to be revised and the project further
developed.
3 Marine Turtle Monitoring and Conservation Programme

3.1 Introduction
Tortuguero and the surrounding area have a long history with marine turtles. Archie Carr
began his studies of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) in Tortuguero in 1954 and since
1958 the Caribbean Conservation Corporation (CCC) has continued his work on this
species and others. Although Tortuguero and the Tortuguero National Park (TNP) are
best known for their populations of green turtles they also host populations of
25
leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coriacea), hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata)
and the occasional loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta).
Located about 7km North of Tortuguero, inside the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge, is
the Estacion Biologica Caño Palma (EBCP) which is owned by the Canadian
Organization for Tropical Education and Rainforest Conservation (COTERC) and is the
base of the project. Since its creation in 1990 COTERC has been interested in
developing a marine turtle monitoring programme on Playa Norte (North Beach), located
on the North side of Laguna Tortuguero.
In 2004 and 2005, COTERC undertook a feasibility assessment in order to establish the
significance of the population of marine turtles nesting on Playa Norte and to determine
whether this number warranted a project and significant protection. The findings of the
assessment did indeed establish the importance of a long term marine turtle monitoring
programme, and a programme was initiated with the assistance of Global Vision
International (GVI).
Management of both TNP and the Barra del Colarado Wildlife Refuge is becoming
increasingly important because of the rise in tourism in the area. The number of tourists
visiting the national park has increased from 49,281 in 2000 to 103,121 in 2005.
Between 1988 and 2002, tourist numbers visiting the park grew at an annual average
rate of 16% (Tortuguero Conservation Area data published by Tröeng, 2004). This
increase in visitors to the TNP has had a trickle down effect on the reserve and North
Beach, development along North Beach has been steady over the past few years with
the creation of two hotels and several homes. It is likely that the population of the local
community of San Francisco will continue to grow as will the tourism industry in the area.
It is hoped that with a greater understanding of the dynamics of Playa Norte and its
associated marine turtle population, this project will contribute to an informed approach
to the management of North Beach, the reserve and the area surrounding the town of
Tortuguero.
This report is a summary of the marine turtle activity from 12th June to 14th September
2007 on Playa Norte, Tortuguero. A complete report on leatherback activity can be found
in the 2007 Leatherback Turlte Season Report while a complete report on green,
26
hawksbill, and loggerhead turtle activity can be found in the 2007 Green Turtle Season
Report.
3.2 Aim
The overall aims of this project are to be a leader in the long term conservation of marine
turtles in the area of Playa Norte and to ethically gather valuable scientific data on the
nesting marine turtles.
The project’s specific conservation aims are to 1) reduce poaching rates by being a
constant presence on the beach, by disguising nests of leatherback, hawksbill, and
loggerhead turtles, and by relocating nests as permitted and as necessary, 2) educate
the community and tourists about appropriate behaviour on a beach with nesting marine
turtles, and 3) educate the community and tourists about marine turtle conservation.
The project’s specific scientific aims are to 1) gather selected biometric data on nesting
marine turtles, 2) record the spatial and seasonal distribution of nesting females, 3)
monitor the number of nesting emergences, 4) determine the level of illegal poaching on
turtles and their nests, 5) record survival of the nests and hatchling success rates, 6)
monitor for the apparent physical health of nesting females, 7) track re-emergences to
the nesting beach and or migration between beaches, and 8) register tourist and human
development around the nesting site.
3.3 Methodology
The methodology used for the marine turtle monitoring programme follows the COTERC
and GVI protocols. This methodology was used for all of phase 073 (12th June to 14th
September) and will be used for all of 2007. For further, more specific methodologies
please refer to the 2007 Marine Turtle Monitoring Programme Night and Day Protocols.
3.3.1 Study site
Playa Norte, which contains the study area, is 3 1/8 miles long, (approximately 5 km),
and extends from the Tortuguero River mouth (10º36’36,9”N - 83º31’52,1”W) on the
Southern end of the beach to Laguna Cuatro (10º37’56,3”N – 83º32’25,7”W) at the
Northern end. Although this beach is not located within the TNP boundaries, it is situated
27
within the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge, which, like the TNP, is managed by ACTo
(Area de Conservación Tortuguero) under MINAE – the Costa Rican Ministry of
Environment and Energy.
The study area is marked as mile 0 at the Tortuguero River mouth and mile 3 1/8 just
North of Laguna Cuatro. The length of the beach is divided and marked with mile
markers at every 1/8 of a mile (approximately 200 m). The mile markers run in ascending
order from the South to the North to allow for the documentation of spatial distribution
and density of nests along the beach.
The nearest village to the study site is San Francisco, a constantly growing community of
about 275 residents, situated South of mile 0. Two hotels, Cabinas Vista al Mar and
Turtle Beach Lodge, and approximately eight houses are located along the study beach.
On the Southern side of the Tortuguero River mouth is Tortuguero beach, which the
CCC monitors from mile 0 to Jalova lagoon at mile 18.
The sand on Playa Norte is black and fine, typical of a high energy-beach. The width of
the nesting beach platform, or berm, varies from two to 38 meters, but the configuration
of its shape and size changes constantly in response to long shore drift and exposure
levels.
The dominant plants on the nesting beach are morning glory (Ipomoea pes-caprae), rea-
purslane (Sesuvium portulacastrum) and rush grass (Sporobolus virginicus). The berm is
bordered by a hedgerow of cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco) and sea grapes (Coccoloba
uvifera) with a mixture of coconut palms (Cocos nucifera) and various tropical
hardwoods behind.
The beach is littered with a variety of debris including logs, coconut husks and a large
amount of plastics, trash and bottles.
3.3.2 Pre-season preparations
Before the season began, each mile-marker was repaired or replaced if necessary.
Many beach cleans were completed with the hope of creating better nesting sites. Each
volunteer and patrol leader was trained thoroughly both in the classroom and in the field
in order to ensure competent data collection and ethical behaviour on the beach.
28
3.3.3 Daily track census and nest surveys
Morning census was conducted every day from 12th June to 14th September. It started at
approximately 5:00 to 6:00 am and lasted for up to five hours depending on the volume
of data to collect. The survey involved walking the beach between mile 0 and 3 1/8,
recording and monitoring tracks and nests from the night before. The day team identified
tracks as full tracks (turtle nested), half moons (non-nesting emergences), or a lifted
turtle (no tracks going back into the sea). The vertical position of the nest on the beach
was identified either as Open (O – area of beach which receives 100% sunlight), Border
(B - area where nest is partially shaded by vegetation) or Vegetation (V - area where
nest is constantly shaded by vegetation). Nests were then identified as natural (if it
remained in its original state until hatchling emergence or excavation), poached (when
egg shells or a cavity were found), eroded or predated by an animal. It was marked as
unknown if the nest had many signs of poaching, such as an accumulation of flies, stick
holes, and human and or dog prints, but no egg shells or cavity.
3.3.4 Night surveys
Night surveys were conducted every night from 12th June to 14th September. Each night
a minimum of one survey team walked the beach between mile 0 and mile 3 1/8 for a
minimum of four hours each. If one team was on the beach they patrolled around 21:30
to 01:30. When two teams patrolled the first team patrolled the beach from
approximately 20:00 to midnight whilst the second team patrolled from 23:00 to 03:00.
When a turtle track was found the Patrol Leader (PL) determined whether or not the
turtle was still on the beach. If not, then the PL determined if the track was a half moon,
nest, or lifted turtle. If it was deemed a half moon, the species, GPS coordinate, closest
Northern mile-marker, and time track was seen were all recorded. If deemed a nest, the
species, GPS coordinate, closest Northern mile-marker, time the track was seen, vertical
position, and nest status were recorded. If deemed a lifted turtle at the very least the
species, GPS coordinate, closest Northern mile-marker, time the track was seen and
vertical position (if it had nested), were recorded.
When a turtle was encountered, all efforts were made not to disturb her before
oviposition. All patrol members who were to come in contact with the turtle put on gloves.
29
Once the egg-laying process had started, the eggs were counted (yolkless and fertile
counted separately) and triangulation of the nest was completed. When the turtle
completed oviposition and began to cover her egg chamber, she was then checked for
tags, Old Tag Notches (OTNs) and Old Tag Holes (OTHs) and tagged if necessary.
Leatherback turtles were tagged in the thin skin between the rear flippers and the tail
using Monel #49 tags (National Band & Tag Co., Newport, USA). Green, loggerhead,
and hawksbill turtles were tagged on the front flippers before the first scale using Inconel
#681 tags.
Once tagging was finished the minimum curved carapace length (CCLmin) and
maximum curved carapace width (CCWmax) were taken to the nearest millimetre, three
times each. If the measurements were not within 3mm of each other more were taken
until the data was consistent. For leatherbacks, CCLmin was taken from the nuchal
notch where the skin touches the carapace, along the back to the right of the central
ridge until the end of the caudal projection. It was also noted whether the caudal
projection was complete or not. For green, loggerhead, and hawksbill turtles, CCLmin
was taken from where the skin touches the carapace along the back until the posterior
notch (not the longest length of the carapace). For all species CCWmax was always
taken along the widest part of the turtle.
Once tagging and measurements were completed, the turtle was checked for
abnormalities and fibropapillomas tumors. All irregularities were recorded.
The GPS coordinates, closest Northern mile marker, phase the turtle was found in (1-
emerging from the sea, 2-selecting nest site, 3-digging body pit, 4-digging egg chamber,
5-oviposition, 6-covering egg chamber, 7-camouflaging, 8-returning to the sea),
encounter time, direction while nesting, and vertical position were also recorded.
3.3.5 Nest fate, nest survivorship and hatching success
Nests were triangulated during oviposition whenever possible and triangulation was
attempted at times even when the egg chamber was not seen in order to gather as much
information about the poaching rate and hatchling success as possible (for leatherbacks
and hawksbills only). Triangulation was done in order to locate and excavate the nests
70 days after the nest was laid for green, loggerhead, and hawksbill turtles or 75 for
30
leatherback turtles. Triangulation was conducted using three pieces of flagging tape
(tags), that featured the date, direction (N, C, S) and station name. These were attached
to the vegetation behind the nest. The distance from the center of the egg chamber to
each of these tags was measured to the nearest cm whilst the turtle was laying eggs.
The distance to the most recent high tide line was also recorded. Triangulation is an
accurate method for locating the egg chamber when the nest is due to be excavated.
Three tags are used to compensate for the loss of any points of reference: if one tag is
lost it is still possible to locate the nest using the other two tags.
Triangulation was also used during beach cleans to clear a pathway for the hatchlings.
In addition to triangulated nests, all nests found because hatchlings or hatchling tracks
were seen on the beach during morning or night surveys were excavated two days after
the first hatchling tracks were encountered.
For all excavations, the number of live and dead hatchlings, egg shells accounting for
more than 50% of an egg, unhatched eggs with embryo, unhatched eggs without
embryos and depredated eggs by crabs or other animals were counted and
recorded..For all nests accurately marked and measured, the nest’s fate was
determined. Nests which were not marked or unable to be excavated were excluded
from the analysis. The following nest fate categories were applied: natural, poached,
predated, eroded and unknown. Empty egg chambers were classified as poached nests.
If there was any doubt about the fate of a nest it was categorized as unknown.
During all excavations the distance from the top of the sand to the top of the eggs as
well as the top of the sand to the bottom of the egg chamber was measured.
3.3.6 Disguising nests
For all leatherback, hawksbill, and loggerhead nests considerable effort was put into
disguising the nests from poachers. Several strategies were used, such as erasing the
tracks with a long piece of wood, throwing dry sand all over the area, sweeping the sand
with a coconut leaf, placing logs and other debris on top of the nest and remove them
later, etc. At times the efforts were abandoned due to people approaching or dogs
barking
31
3.3.7 Collection of human impact data
During each night survey, the number of red and white mobile lights, fires, locals and
tourists on the beach were recorded. It was noted when there were tour groups of more
than ten on the beach. Each month during the new moon the number of stationary white
and red lights was recorded.
3.4 Results
The results of this study can be found in the season report.
4 EBCP Resident Bird Project

4.1 Introduction
Growing concerns about the status of birds in the rainforests of Central America has lead
to the establishment of long-term monitoring programmes. The Estación Biológica Caño
Palma (EBCP) resident bird project (RBP) aims to quantify diversity and abundance of
the species which live and breed in the area of Caribbean Lowland Rainforest around
EBCP, 7km North of Tortuguero National Park.
The nature of Costa Rica’s bird life has meant that it has been a popular location to
study behaviour and diversity for many years. Much of this focus has been directed
towards migratory birds and the information on resident species is still in need of
considerable research.
The GVI protocol is modified from the original protocol created by Steven Furino of
Waterloo University Canada. The modifications have been made to the protocol so that
data collectors with minimal field experience are able to collect high quality data suitable
for the study. This has involved reducing the number of species and study areas as well
as limiting the amount of technical data collected on species. In all other aspects the
research follows the original protocol.
4.2 Aim
This research programme is intended to accumulate data that will help researchers
answer the following questions:
32
• How frequently do pelagic species visit the Caribbean Coast? Is there any pattern to
their visits?
• When, exactly, do resident birds breed in coastal areas and swamp forests?
• What can be learnt about the breeding and nesting behaviour of resident birds?
• Are breeding activities and climate correlated?
4.3 Methodology
This project has adopted standard survey techniques so that suitable comparisons can
be made with data sets gathered by other researchers.
For each Resident Bird Project (RBP) survey the following general data were recorded:
• Name of study site

• Name of primary surveyor
• Date of survey
• Start time (using a 24 hour clock)
• End time (using a 24 hour clock)
The study species targeted for data collection were as follows:
Agami Heron Agamia agami

Amazon Kingfisher Chloroceryle amazona
American Pygmy Kingfisher Chloroceryle aenea
Anhinga Anhinga anhinga
Bare-throated Tiger-Heron Tigrisoma mexicanum
Belted Kingfisher Ceryle alcyon
Boat-billed Heron Cochlearius cochlearius
Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis
Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias
Great Egret Casmerodius albus
Green Heron Butorides s. virescens
Green Ibis Mesembrinibis cayennensis
Green Kingfisher Chloroceryle Americana
33
Green-and-rufous Kingfisher Chloroceryle inda
Grey-necked Wood-Rail Aramides cajanea
Least Bittern Ixobrychus exilis
Limpkin Aramus guarauna
Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea
Neotropical Cormorant Phalacrocorax olivaceus
Northern Jacana Jacana spinosa
Purple Gallinule Porphyrula martinica
Reddish Egret Egretta rufescens
Ringed kingfisher Ceryle torquata
Rufescent Tiger-Heron Tigrisoma lineatum
Snowy Egret Egretta thula
Sunbittern Eurypyga helias
Sungrebe Heliornis fulica
Tri-coloured Heron Egretta tricolour
White-throated Crake Laterallus albigularis
Yellow-crowned Night Heron Nyctanassa violacea
The study species were selecting based on two characteristics. Firstly the aquatic
environment is of major importance to the tourism and ecology of the tortuguero area.
This habitat is being increasingly utilized and it is expected that this use will, in time,
have an impact on the avian population it supports. Secondly the study speices are all
relatively easy to locate and record making them ideal species for studies using low
experience data collectors.
The method of survey used in the study is an area search which records all study
species seen or heard while searching a predetermined area. See appendix A for exact
locations of each area.
Within each area, sectors have been selected to aid with data collection and analysis.
These sectors have been selected to include a broad variation of habitats within the
study areas.
For each area search only positively identified species were recorded. For each positive
record made the following data were collected:
34
• Station code at which species was observed
• Number seen or heard (S: seen only, H: heard only, SH: seen and heard)
Any notes on breeding plumage or behaviour
4.4 Results
4.4.1 Survey data
During phase 074 a total of 19 RBP surveys were undertaken. Of these seven were
undertaken on Caño Palma and 12 on the national park trails. Of the national park
surveys six were on Caño Chiquero and six on Caño Harold. With the exception of one
dusk Caño Palma survey, all were conducted at dawn.
Data collected on the aquatic trails entrance to Caños Chiquero and Harold has been
listed separately as the habitat is very different from the Caños themselves, so attracts
different species. A total of 21 species were recorded on the four study sites. See figure
5-1 for a summary of the number of species seen and surveys conducted for each study
area.
16
14
12
10
Total
8
6
4
2
0
AQT´s Caño Palma Caño Harold Caño
Chiquero
Surveys
Species
35
Figure 4-1 Total number of species and surveys on the aquatic trails entrance, Caño Chiquero, Caño
Harold and Caño Palma, Costa Rica.
The numbers of key species recorded during surveys on Caño Chiquero, Caño Harold,
the aquatic trails entrance and Caño Palma, Costa Rica are illustrated in figures 5-2, 5-3,
5-4 and 5-5 respectively.
60.00
50.00
Percentage of Species Observed
40.00
30.00
20.00
10.00
0.00
Amazon Green Heron Sungrebe Anhinga Bare-throated Great Blue Green Ibis Green-and-
Kingfisher Tiger-Heron Heron rufous
Kingfisher
Figure 4-2 Key species recorded per survey on Caño Chiquero aquatic trail, Tortuguero National
Park, Costa Rica.
A total of eight different study species were identified on Caño Chiquero aquatic trail
surveys. The three most frequently observed species (identified on 50% of surveys),
were: Amazon Kingfisher, Green Kingfisher and the Sungrebe. The Green Ibis, Green-
and-rufous Kingfisher, Great Blue Heron, Anhinga and Bare-throated Tiger-Heron, were
equal fourth, identified on 16.67% of surveys.
36
The Green Ibis was the only rare or uncommon species observed during the surveys on
Caño Chiquero. There were no species observed exclusively on this Caño.
80
70
60
Percentage of Surveys Observed
50
40
30
20
10
0
Green-and Ringed American Anhinga Belted Boat-billed Great Egret Green Green Snowy White- Yellow-
rufous Kingfisher Pygmy Kingfisher Heron Heron Kingfisher Egret throated crowned
Kingfisher Kingfisher Crake Night
Heron
Figure 4-3 Key species recorded per survey on Caño Harold aquatic trail, Tortuguero National Park,
Costa Rica.
A total of 12 different study species were identified on Caño Harold aquatic trail surveys.
The most frequently observed species (identified on 66.67% of surveys), was the Green-
and-rufous Kingfisher. The Ringed Kingfisher was seen on 33.33% of surveys and all
other species were seen on a single survey only. These were: American Pygmy
Kingfisher, Boat.billed Heron, Belted Kingfisher, Great Egret, Green Heron, Green
Kingfisher, Snowy Egret, White-throated Crake, Yellow-crowned Night Heron, and
Anhinga.
No rare or uncommon species were observed during the surveys on Caño Harold, but
across all surveys, the White-throated Crake was observed exclusively on this Caño.
Across national park surveys, the Yellow-crowned Night Heron, Boat-billed Heron and
Belted Kingfisher were identified exclusively on Caño Harold.
37
120
100
80
60
40
20
t
on
is
r
t
t
on
na
on
r
r
on
re
re
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az
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in
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Li
N
at
Am
R
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an
-th
ic
re
er
Ba
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Figure 4-4 Key species recorded per survey on the aquatic trails (AQT) entrance,
Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica.
A total of 15 different study species were identified on the AQT entrance canal during
aquatic trail surveys. The Little Blue Heron was observed on 100% of surveys, with
Bare-throated Tiger-Heron and Green Heron observed on 91.67% of surveys, sharing
second place. At 83.33% and 75.0% respectively, the Northern Jacana and Anhinga
share fourth and fifth place. Other observed species were: the Amazon Kingfisher,
American Pygmy Kingfisher, Cattle Egret, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Green Ibis,
Green Kingfisher, Ringed Kingfisher, Snowy Egret and Sungrebe.
The Green Ibis was the only rare or uncommon species observed during the survey on
AQT entrance canal, but the Sungrebe was observed exclusively on this section.
38
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
on
t
a
on
r
is
t
on
r
on
r
l
re
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ai
he
he
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Ib
R
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er
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is
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An
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ille
Ki
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ig
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-b
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ed
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-ru
at
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an
y-
-th
-c
-a
ra
ic
re
w
en
er
G
llo
Ba
Am
re
Ye
G
Figure 4-5 Key species recorded per survey on Caño Palma, Tortuguero, Costa Rica.
A total of 15 different study species were identified on Caño Palma during aquatic trail
surveys. The Anhinga and Yellow-crowned Night Heron were observed on 100% of
surveys, with the Amazon Kingfisher and Green Kingfisher observed on 85.71% of
surveys, sharing second place. At 71.43%, the Green Heron and Green Ibis share fifth
place. Other observed species were: the American Pygmy Kingfisher, Bare-throated
Tiger-Heron, Belted Kingfisher, Boat-billed Heron, Cattle Egret, Green-and-rufous
Kingfisher, grey’necked Wood-Rail, Ringed Kingfisher and Snowy Egret.
The Green Ibis was the only rare or uncommon species observed during the surveys on
Caño Palma. The Grey-necked Wood-Rail was seen exclusively on Caño Palma
surveys.
4.5 Discussion
The EBCP Resident Bird Project monitoring survey began in July of 2005 and is an
ongoing project. Further collection of data is important in order to establish reliable
population trends for local bird species.
39
“Determination of the extent to which ecological systems are experiencing anthropogenic
disturbance and change in structure and function is critical for the long-term conservation
of biotic diversity in the face of changing landscapes and land use” (Canterbury et al.,
2000). The ongoing purpose of this study is to assess the level of impact tourism is
having on the animals within Tortuguero National Park, by identifying shifts in their
distribution or abundance.
This baseline study focused on counts of individual species within the specific Caños of
the National Park and reserve in order to give an indication of the key species
compositions found there.
It has been argued that continuous or frequent high intensity activities such as the use of
motorized power boats constantly throughout the day cause more disturbance than
continuous low intensity disturbance. It has also been said that in general birds appear
to habituate to continual noises so long as there is no large amplitude “startling”
component (Hocken et al., 1992; cited in Hill 1997). Another suggestion by Hill et al,
states that most water based recreation generates medium intensity, continuous or high
intensity infrequent disturbance. It is thus believed that medium disturbance may cause a
site to become unattractive to the more susceptible species while the latter could result
in displacement of the birds for short periods.
Data collected on individual study sites will be used over time to assess how certain
populations are changing, if at all, and how they use the specific habitat over the course
of a year.
The findings from this phase do not highlight any unexpected or unusual patterns in the
local bird populations.
The EBCP Resident Bird Project surveys undertaken during phase 074 have assisted in
increasing the overall data set. They have also helped in identifying areas where
continued improvement to the methodology is required in order to gain the most useful
and accurate data.
40
5 Tourist Impact Survey Caño Palma
5.1 Introduction
Although not an official part of the national park, Caño Palma is included in the
Management Plan for Visitors to Tortuguero National Park (TNP) as it provides a
suitable alternative to the national park for wildlife viewing, thus helping to reduce the
demand on other canals within the park’s boundaries (Bermúdez and Hernández, 2004).
Restrictions on the number of boats allowed into TNP per day were put into place on the
24th of April, 2006, See table 6.1 for a breakdown of allowed boat usage on Cano Palma.
Thus, this change is likely to have resulted in an increase in the number of tourist boats
using Caño Palma. Boat surveys were initiated in phase 061 (January16th - March 27th,
2006) before these changes took place. With tourist numbers rising (now approaching
90,000 visitor per year), (MINAE Tortuguero National Park Headquarters, 2007)
continuing to monitor the number of boats associated with tourist activity utilizing Caño
Palma is imperative to gauge any changes in intensity of activity and potential impact
this may have on the wildlife in this area.
Time restriction Number of

boats allowed
05:30 – 08:00 10
08:00 – 10:30 10
10:30 – 13:00 10
13:00 – 15:30 10
15:30 – 18:00 10
Table 5-1 Boat use restriction on Cano Palma, Tortuguero, Costa Rica.
5.2 Aims
The Tourist Impact survey conducted from Estacion Biologica Caño Palma (EBCP) aims
to monitor the number of boats frequenting Caño Palma in order to estimate the intensity
of tourist activity within the greater Tortuguero area. It is an ongoing study and aims to
collect consistent data throughout the entire phase of each expedition.
41
5.3 Methodology
Boat dock surveys were conducted once a week by two expedition members. One
expedition member collected data from 06:00 until 12:00 and another from 12:00 until
18:00. Seven surveys were completed during phase 074 on the following dates: October
21st , October 30th , November 1st , November 7th , November 25th , December 2nd and
December 6th. For each watercraft that passed Caño Palma Biological Station’s boat
dock the following details were recorded:
• Date
• Time the boat originally passed and return time if it passed by again in the opposite
direction.
• Direction of travel (N for North, S for South).
• Boat name or number.
• Name of Lodge the boat was owned by (Turtle Beach, Cabinas Vista El Mar,
Pachira, Evergreen, Samoa, Tortuga, Mawamba, Jungle or Laguna Lodge). Any
watercraft originating from the EBCP (Iriria, La Peregrina, Kinkajou, Luisa or the
kayaks) were recorded as Caño Palma in the Lodge category. All other personal
watercraft were categorized as Private or Taxi for any boats that were used for public
transportation.
• Whether passengers were tourists or not (Y for Yes or N for No).
• Number of people onboard (including driver and guides).
• Type of motor: 4S (four stroke), 2S (two stroke) or none (canoe or kayak).
• Comments: Any additional information pertinent to the survey.
The total number of boats passing the station was analyzed as well as the number of
boats that were associated with tourism. A boat associated with tourism was classified
as any boat belonging to a tourist lodge as well as any private boat or taxi carrying
tourists. For analysis purposes a tourist was defined as a short term visitor to the area
(domestic or international). The number of boats from each tourist lodge was looked at to
determine which lodges frequent Caño Palma most often. The average number of
passengers per boat was calculated as well as the boat with the maximum and minimum
number of passengers. An average was calculated for the number of boats per day and
the survey with the most and least number of boats was noted.
42
To determine the busiest time of day for watercraft activity, the survey was divided into
two hour time periods from 06:00 till 18:00 and the number of boats within each time
period calculated. Engine type was broken down into four stroke, two stroke or none
(canoe or kayak) and was looked at as a percentage of the total number of boats.
5.4 Results
The total number of watercraft passing EBCP during phase 072 was 223. Boats
associated with tourism accounted for 60% of these (see figure 1-1).
2%
11%
11%
60%
16%
Tourism
Caño Palma Non-Motorized Boats
Caño Palma Motorized Boats
Private Non-Tourism
Taxi Non-Tourism
Figure 5-1. Proportion of watercraft passing EBCP that were associated with tourism.
Of the 60% of boats passing the station associated with tourism, 74% of those boats
were from tourist lodges with the remainder being either taxi’s or private boats carrying
tourists (see figure 1-2).
43
21%
Tourist Lodge
5%
Taxi's Carrying Tourists
Private Boats Carrying Tourists
74%
Figure 1-2. Proportion of boats associated with tourism
Eight tourist lodges were recorded using Caño Palma. Cabinas Vista al Mar (Don
Edgar’s) and Turtle Beach Lodge used the canal most often (see figure 1-3). These are
the only two lodges located along Caño Palma.
45
40
35
Number of Boats
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Cabinas Turtle Laguna Mawamba Samoa Pachira Evergreen Tortuga
Vista al Beach Lodge Lodge Lodge Lodge Lodge Lodge
Mar Lodge
Tourist Lodge
Figure 1-3. Number of boats from each Tourist Lodge using Caño Palma.
44
For boats carrying passengers, the average number of people onboard was 12. The
boat with the most passengers was from Tortuga Lodge and was carrying 38 people.
There were 84 boats with no passengers.
The average number of boats per day was 32. The highest number of boats during one
survey was 45 and was recorded on the 2nd of December, 2007. The least number of
boats was recorded on the 7th of November, 2007 with 18 boats passing by.
The time period with the highest watercraft activity was 08:00 until 09:59. The time
period with the least watercraft activity was 10:00 until 11:59 (see figure 1-4).
60
50
Number of Boats
40
30
20
10
0
6:00-7:59 8:00-9:59 10:00-11:59 12:00-13:59 14:00-15:59 16:00-17:59
Time of Day
Figure 1-4: Distribution of time of day and number of boats passing EBCP.
Of the 225 boats passing the station during phase 074, 79% had four-stroke engines,
3% had two stroke engines and 18% had no engines (were canoes or kayaks).
5.5 Discussion
For phase 074 seven boats dock surveys were carried out. Ideally at least eight days of
data per phase should be collected; however due to unforeseen circumstances this was
not possible. For example in week six, Expedition Members were evacuated due to
flooding. During phase 074, boat dock surveys were carried out on the following days;
Week two; Saturday, Week three; Tuesday, Week four; Thursday, Week five;
Wednesday, Week six; no survey, Week seven; Sunday, Week eight; Sunday and Week
45
nine; Thursday. Ideally each survey should be scheduled on different days to ensure an
even coverage; however this is not always possible. For 2008, boat dock surveys will be
scheduled in advance and if possible on the same days as in 2007 to ensure a more
even coverage and to allow certain dates to be compared.
Discrepancies in the data collection methods have been revised and a protocol has been
put in place to ensure that all data collected is able to be objectively recorded and
analyzed efficiently. For example Lodge catergories are now clearly defined as the
Name of the Lodge, Private for any personal watercraft, Taxi, for any public
transportation and Caño Palma for any watercraft that is used by EBCP. As data
collection continues, trends will be revealed in regards to peak traffic times, the peak
periods of tourist activity throughout the year, the lodges most frequenting the canal and
any changes in number of boats that are affiliated with tourism.
With restrictions in place on how many boats per day can enter the National Park, it is
predicted that tourist boat activity will increase on Caño Palma. Increased tourist activity
on the canal may have a significant impact on the local flora and fauna and require
further attention and management Another one of Global Vision International’s projects
is to carry out a weekly bird survey on Caño Palma to record the number of species
sighted. Still in its early stages, the current boat dock data can give no direct indication
of any effect on the wildlife present, but with standardized collection methods now in
place for both projects data can be compared with future phases and any potential
impact on the canal can then be assessed.
6 Reforestation
6.1 Introduction
The Reforestation Project was started in 2006 by Mario Quesada of the Canadian
Organisation for Tropical Education and Rainforest Conservation (COTERC). Seeds
from the area were collected, cultivated and then replanted in the San Francisco area.
The project was based around collecting seeds and saplings of key native species in the
area and replanting them on the biological station property as well as in the San
Francisco community.
46
One species that was selected as a key species was the almendro de montaña (Dipteryx
panamensis). This tree was identified as a tree depended upon by great green macaws
(Ara ambigua) for nesting and feeding and is also a habitat for other endangered
species. It is the primary hard wood used for truck beds, wood flooring and other such
applications (Chassot & Arias, 2002). For this reason it has been heavily logged in the
Tortuguero area. Another important species is the Ojoche (Brosimun allicastrom) which
is desirable as it is a versatile hardwood.
The project’s objective is to develop and maintain a production system that outputs key
plant species in an efficient manner so that a future partner can dictate desired growing
numbers for a reforestation programme. This means that the project aims to keep open
channels of communication with other reforestation programs regarding various growing
conditions and propagation types so as to maintain a continual cycle of plant production.
6.2 Aim
This project aims to collect seeds and saplings from key species of plants in the area,
harvest them, and then replant the species on the EBCP property and in the San
Francisco community, in order to increase the number of native fruiting and hardwood
trees used by local species of wildlife. It is the goal of GVI to develop a working
relationship with a partner so that we can develop a respected reforestation programme
that not only benefits the local community but the wildlife.
6.3 Methodology
6.3.1 Seed collection
When a seeding tree was found, as many seeds as possible were collected. Seeds were
put into a bag and bags were crated, with the species name written on a tag on the
outside of the crate. Seeds were planted as quickly as possible.
6.3.2 Sapling collection
Saplings were collected and put into large black plant bags immediately upon arrival at
the station.
47
When saplings were extracted, care was taken not to tear the roots. A spade or trowel
was used to dig around the sapling and carefully remove it from the earth. Any excess
dirt was shaken off and the sapling was planted into the bag. The area was cleaned
afterwards because the trees were on private property.
6.3.3 Bagging seeds and saplings
Every new species bagged was recorded in the Reforestation Log Book along with the
date and the number of the species bagged that day. Seeds were put roughly one inch
below the surface of the soil when bagged and any sapling roots were completely
covered. Bagged plants were stored in crates, organized together with others of the
same species, and kept on the plant table located in the nursery on the Northern side of
the dormitories at EBCP. Collected saplings have also been planted into crates/trays and
placed on the tables located in the nursery.
6.3.4 Nursery maintenance
It has been a major goal of this phase to bring the nursery up to a working standard. This
has essentially included mending old tables, building new tables, sorting and organizing
plant species into ordered trays as well as continually weeding bags and trays so as to
give the plants the best chance of survival. Another main area of focus has been the
compost area, as the infrastructure needed to be expanded in order to meet our goal of
having usable compost from the station by Phase 11.
6.4 Results
In this phase, seeds and saplings of the Ojoche, (Brosimum lactescens) were collected
from Don Rapha’s property in the San Francisco. The saplings of the Ojoche were
collected and transferred into plastic bags, planted into trays and stored in the nursery.
150 saplings were removed from his property at the end of the phase and there are
currently around 800 more available for collection. This can be done during Phase 11,
once the nursery infrastructure is able to accommodate them.
All Alemendro and Ojoche saplings that germinated from the previous phases were
repotted in larger bags as they had outgrown their original storage containers. They
have established sound root systems are growing well.
48
Much of the time during phase 074 was dedicated to the organization and preparation of
the reforestation project and nursery on base, which is found on the Northern edge of
the dormitory building. We have doubled the number of tables, and the new tables have
been organized in a manner that allows all saplings and seed trays to be managed in an
easily accessible manner at waist height. A new compost bin was built enabling us to
rest the original bin, and a regular schedule of compost maintenance was established.
Compost from the compost toilets was used for the first time this phase, mixed in with
the soil for planting seeds and saplings. Some time was also spent reviewing information
from other reforestation projects, an element of the project which should be ongoing, to
ensure that we learn from those with greater experience than ourselves.
6.5 Discussion
The project began this year and research is ongoing for species that are of local
importance and have been depleted in the area. The project is still being developed and
methodology will change as more research is done.
During the next phase we will be able to expand the nursery area further as materials
become available. Some of the future goals of the reforestation project are:
• Create a nursery in San Francisco. This could involve fruiting trees, and give an
opportunity to involve the community through the environmental education
classes. This will need consistent and reliable input from our own staff to ensure
that it is not neglected over time and to help to maintain interest in the project.
• Survey community to find useful, desired plants for the area
• Experiment with different plant species
• Find a reforestation partner, to give the project on base direction and purpose.
7 EBCP Incidentals
7.1 Introduction
The Estacion Biologica Caño Palma (EBCP) Incidental project was initiated during phase
071 in order to maintain a formal record of the different types of species found within the
stations property borders. The project has gone through various changes over the
phases in order to simplify the data collection methods and ensure each species is
positively identified and accurately recorded. By keeping a daily record of the occurrence
of species found around base, we can determine which species are seen most
49
frequently and determine if there any changes in the frequency of sightings of certain
species over time. This is important to determine if the presence of people around base
for the majority of the year is having an effect on the wildlife present.
7.2 Aim
The aim of the Incidentals project is to maintain a formal, accurate record of the daily
occurrences of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians sighted around the Caño
Palma Biological Station.
7.3 Methodology
Laminated, picture cards of the different types of birds, amphibians, reptiles and
mammals commonly found around base were posted on the kitchen wall of the station.
Each day of phase 074, all GVI Staff and Expedition Members marked off the
appropriate photo if they saw, and could accurately identify one or more of the species
listed. All other sightings (species not listed on the photo plates) were recorded by
writing the common name of the species down. Repeat sightings were not recorded nor
the number or location of individuals in order to simplify the data collection. For analysis
purposes the data collected between the 10th of October and 14th December (the final
day Expedition members were present) was used; totaling 66 days.
7.4 Results
The total number of records was 1688. One hundred and twenty one different species
were recorded, 103 of these were bird species. The five most frequently seen bird
species were the white-collared manakin (Manacus candei), recorded 58 days, the great
kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus), recorded 56 days, the long-billed hermit (Phaethornis
longirostris), recorded 54 days, the montezuma oropendola (Gymnostinops montezuma),
recorded 53 days and the rufous-tailed hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl), recorded 52
days. There were numerous birds (18), sighted only once. Some of these included the
common potoo (Nyctibius griseus), laughing falcon (Herpetotheres cachinnans), lesser
greenlet (Hylophilus decurtatus), masked tityra (Tityra semifasciata), common paraque
(Nyctidromus albicollis) and the plain wren (Thryothorus modestus).
50
The most commonly recorded mammals were the Brazilian long-nosed bats
(Rhynchonycteris naso), recorded 45 days. The monkeys sighted included mantled
howler monkeys (Allouata palliate), (42 days), Central American spider monkeys (Ateles
geoffroyi), (18 days) and white faced capuchins (Cebus capucinus) (11 days).
The most commonly recorded amphibian was the marine toad (Bufo marinus), recorded
31 times and the strawberry poison frog (Dendrobates pumilio), recorded 24 times.
The most commonly recorded reptile was the green iguana (Iguana Iguana), recorded
36 days and the festive jungle runner (Ameiva festiva), recorded 19 days.
7.5 Discussion
The photo record slides were implemented in phase 073 in order to simplify data
collection. Although showing improvements, the data was still not reflective of the
species known to be on base everyday. The protocol was further modified in phase 074
with the aim of increasing the number of recordings by reducing the number of species
recorded to include only birds, mammal, reptiles, and amphibians. Furthermore, only the
common name of the species was collected this phase, whereas location, sex and
activity were previously recorded. Although markedly better than previous phases, phase
074 data is still not error free. Common species that are known to be around base
almost every day were not always recorded. For example the lesser greenlet (Hylophilus
decurtatus) was only recorded once, yet it is a frequently sighted bird. Also the great
kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus), is seen every day, yet it was only recorded 56 out of 66
days. The Brazilian long-nosed bats (Rhynchonycteris naso) are commonly found under
the boat dock but occasionally migrate to the Upper Bodega where they are most likely
not going to be seen and therefore not recorded.
Ensuring sightings of species around base are recorded remains the main problem in
this project. However, with new, simpler protocols introduced this data has been more
accurate than ever. With ongoing training for the expedition members and more
awareness of what species are around base we will achieve our goal of having an
accurate record of what species are sighted around base each day.
51
8 Mammal Monitoring Project
8.1 Introduction
The impact of human activities such as tourism and hunting on neotropical wildlife has
been studied in Costa Rica (Carrillo et al., 2000) and elsewhere in the region (e.g.
Cuarón 2000, Naughton-Treves et al., 2003, Novaro et al., 2000, Redford 1992, Wright
et al., 2000). These studies have examined the relationship between these human
activities and patterns of animal abundance, distribution, and habitat use have been
studied in Costa Rica (Carrillo et al., 2000) and elsewhere in the region (e.g. Cuarón
2000, Naughton-Treves et al 2003, Novaro et al 2000, Redford 1992, Wright et al.,
2000).
The results of these studies have determined that there is a negative effect on wildlife
due to these human associated activities and also due to other variables such as
protection status. Scientific evidence also shows that many mammal species are
sensitive to certain pressures such as change in land cover, habitat reduction, and
poaching (e.g. Fonseca & Robinson 1990, Laurence 1990, Soulé et al., 1992, Bodmer et
al., 1997, Chiarello 1999, 2000, Laidlaw 2000).
There is believed to be an abundant and important wildlife population in the Barra del
Colorado Wildlife Refuge, however little research has been undertaken in the area to
quantify this. Extensive, long term monitoring is essential for the conservation of wildlife
and the detection in changes and trends of wild populations is an important tool to
assess if the conservation goals of protected areas are being achieved (Carrillo et al.,
2000).
Some of the species known to be present in the study area fill important ecological roles
and are thought to include many endangered species (as legislated by Costa Rican law).
These endangered species include jaguars (Panthera onca) and other Neotropical
wildcats, tapirs (Tapirus bairdii), white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari), and Central
American spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi).
Extensive, long term monitoring is essential for the conservation of wildlife because it
enables one to determine changes and trends in animal populations. It is also an
52
important tool to access if the conservation goals of protected areas are being achieved
(Carrillo et al., 2000).
The mammal monitoring project began preliminary studies in phase 073; during this time
initial protocols were established and tested and logistical difficulties overcome Primarily
this was conducted on a 200m section of the transect at the eastern boundary. This
preliminary study site was walked for 10 weeks in line with the original protocol. The
preliminary study continued into phase 074 with respect to the photography aspect of the
project. Camera settings and lighting options were appraised in order to receive the best
quality photo possible. To accompany this, an access database was also designed
based on EM feedback. During phase 074 the transect was fully completed, marked and
successfully surveyed.
8.2 Aims
8.2.1 General objective
To examine the species assemblage of arboreal and terrestrial mammals (>0.5 kg in

size) inhabiting the southern extent of the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge between
Caño Palma and Caño Penitencia.
8.2.2 Specific objectives
The project’s specific objectives are to 1) estimate community composition and species
richness, 2) determine relative abundance of species and track trends, 3) evaluate
habitat associations of resident species, and 4) estimate density of more common
species.
8.3 Methodology
The survey site was chosen based on permission from the neighbouring landholder, the
suitability of the trail for transect use, as well as the trails proximity to Caño Palma
Biological Station. The area lowland wet forest proximal to the station is where GVI’s
establishing partner for the mammal monitoring project, COTERC’s interest lies.
53
8.3.1 Transect set up
Set up of the mammal transect, located along the border of Caño Palma’s property line
to the North of the station, took place in phase 074. The trail chosen is a 3050 metre
transect which runs east-west between Caño Penitencia and Caño Palma. The trail was
measured with a fifty meter rope and marked with flagging tape at every fifty meter point.
The tape was tied securely to natural landmarks, such as trees. The number of meters
from the start of the transect was written on each tape. The GPS position was taken at
each marked point. The markers were recorded as way points in a GPS. Trees were
also marked with plain tape in areas that were difficult to navigate.
8.3.2 Main study
During phase 074 two full surveys were conducted with one week between surveys. The
first survey took place on December 6th, 2007 and the second on December 13th, 2007.
The starting point from the westerly Caño Penitencia end of the transect. The survey
start time in each case was at first light and took between six and nine hours to
complete. The first survey was conducted with two staff members, and three EM’s and
the second with two staff members and four EM’s for training purposes.
8.3.3 Data recorded
General survey data recorded on survey was as follows:
• Date (DD/MM/YYYY)
• Survey start and end time (24 hour clock)
• Name of transect
• Weather conditions
• Team members initials (beginning with the staff member)
The categories of recording were as follows:
• Visual
• Tracks
• Vocalizations (here described as auditory records)
• Scat
• Plant damage from feeding mammals
Upon detection the following data was recorded:
54
• Encounter Time (24 hour clock)
• Last meter marker passed
• Record number
• Method of detection (i.e. visual, track, auditory)
• GPS location
• Species common name
• Species scientific name
• Track length and width, in millimetres (as well as initials of team member
measuring track)
• Whether or not a photograph of the track was taken (Y or N)
• Photo ID
• Initials of photographer
• Direction of travel and number of individuals identified
• Any other relevant information such as: activity, diet, elevation, stage of
development, sex, mixed species associations, vegetation
Surveyors remained on the transect line and any movement off the transect was limited
to a maximum of three metres to ensure data validity and minimize human impact.
Photographs were taken in the lower left corner of a setsquare with an ID card showing
the common name of the species and the record number. Photographs were then
numbered, and catalogued in the data folder specified for the project.
8.4 Results
Over the full course of phase 074 there were 22 records of 57 individuals from eight
different species documented. Of these, 17 of the records were discovered on the two
full surveys conducted, yielding 38 of the total individuals and five different species. 17
sets of tracks were recorded (12 coming from the full surveys), four auditory and visual
records (all from the full survey) and one record visual alone (also from the full surveys).
Of those recorded on the full surveys, seven sets of tracks were recorded as collared
peccary (Tayassu tajacu), two sets white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari), two sets of
red brocket deer were recorded, and one set of jaguar (Panthera onca). The mammals
detected by visual and auditory methods were three records of Central American spider
monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) totalling six individuals and one record of mantled howler
monkeys (Allouata palliate) totalling five individuals. The only data collected purely by
visual methods was of two Central American spider monkeys
55
The total number of endangered species identified during full survey on the transect was
three; white-lipped peccary, jaguar, and Central American spider monkey.
8.5 Discussion
This phase, the survey was conducted with up to six people for training purposes,
however, in the future it will be conducted with no more than four people, as stated in
the original protocol, to minimize unnecessary impact along the transect.
The major difficulty faced this phase has been the condition of the transect. With the
Tortuguero region receiving record flood levels twice within one ten week phase, the
conditions on the low-lying trail have been less than ideal. During the surveys conducted
many other tracks were encountered that could not be positively identified due to the
poor ground conditions.
The data collected in phase 074 indicates the presence of a variety of large mammal
species within the study area, located in the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge. In
addition to the data collected during the preliminary study last phase, the database now
comprises of 70 records and data on over ten large mammal species has been recorded,
including numerous endangered or critically endangered species; indicating the
necessity of the continuation of the monitoring project.
Long-term continuation of the study will allow for comparison and analysis of the data
collected in order to fulfil the stated aims. During this phase, in addition to the
establishment of the original transect, there has been interest from MINAE in
establishing similar transects and surveying under the newly established protocols within
Tortuguero National Park. This advancement of the research has potential to be
massively beneficial to the local area in general and would establish a long-term local
partner for the project. It would also provide the potential for a comparison of species
diversity and density between the National Park and Wildlife Refuge.
9 Teaching Community Report

9.1 Introduction to English Teaching
People of different nations increasingly utilize English as a common language in order to

communicate with one another. Costa Rica, and in particular Tortuguero, hosts a
56
growing number of international visitors each year. The people living in this area rely
heavily on the international community and the tourism market. Acquisition of English
language skills will therefore provide locals with better access to the growing market.
9.2 Introduction to Environmental Education
In order to ensure the future of the environment it is essential to educate the local
community on the matter. This education is most efficiently integrated into the
community when it is directed toward the children. In this way, the children will grow up
knowing from an early age what damage they can potentially cause to the environment,
therefore, affecting their livelihood. The hope is that if taught from a young age, the
future generations of San Francisco will sustain and respect their surroundings.
9.3 Aims
The overall aim of the teaching programme in San Francisco and surrounding area is to
provide a service of environmental education and English teaching in order to provide
the residents with the skills they need to protect their environment and improve their
employment opportunities.
The specific aims of the programme are 1) to provide local community training/capacity
building, 2) to help generate local community commitment to environment conservation
and sustainable development, 3) to provide language and cultural exchange 4) to
attempt to provide authentic opportunities for local students to practice listening and
speaking English with native speakers.
9.4 Methods
9.4.1 Training
Teaching training was integrated into the weekly schedule within the ten weeks. All EMs
were briefed on the previous curriculums and material covered by past expeditions.
Training was done through pre-class organization sessions in which the teaching team
would create a lesson plan and prepare the various props needed. More training was
then done after the class with a casual review of what went well during the lesson and
what needed improvement. This phase a community intern was introduced to run the
English program, Environmental Education classes, and the community events. All
57
Expedition Members received fundamental training in teaching English as a foreign
language utilizing the ‘Introduction to TEFL’ course adapted by GVI and presentations
made by staff and interns. The community intern guided the EMs through the lesson
planning process and organization of a children’s English class, an adult English class, a
children’s environmental science class and an intercambio (language exchange) class
with local guides at the local evergreen lodge.
9.4.2 Teaching
All English lessons were adapted to the needs of a community hosting an English
speaking tourist industry. Students ranged from children with no previous exposure to
English, to local guides with a basic fluency of the language.
Before each lesson, the EM teachers and the community intern met for a briefing on
teaching methods and organization of the students.
This phase the community intern was able to conduct adult classes four nights a week;
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 18:30 for an hour, giving the student’s
constant practice and EMs more opportunities to get involved in the community. The
classes given Monday through Wednesday were given solely by the intern whom EMs
could join if they had time, and on Thursday the class was given by the EMs with the
assistance of the intern. Classes were based on a curriculum which the intern created
which reviewed what was previously taught and added to it.
Children’s classes were held in San Francisco each Monday, Tuesday and Friday
afternoons. As with the adult teaching, the classes on Monday and Tuesday were given
solely by the intern whom EMs could join if they had time. On Fridays the class was
given by the EMs with the assistance of the intern. Each week, the EMs decided on
class material and used a team-teaching approach. Generally, each class was divided
into smaller groups to give the children more individual attention when possible. Classes
lasted 45 minutes, then an activity pertaining to the topic taught and some general
conversation took place.
The Environmental Education classes were given on Thursday afternoons at 14:30.

These classes are taught by both the community intern and EMs. These also lasted an
58
hour and focused primarily on animals and plants that inhabit the local region. Much of
the lessons were conducted in Spanish, with the occasional English words included.
In addition to its commitment to San Francisco, GVI also continued to work with the
locally run Canopy Tour connected to Evergreen Lodge. An Intercambio program, which
took place on Wednesdays at 16:00 allowed volunteers to learn Spanish from and teach
English to the guides.
9.4.3 Results
GVI has increased its commitment to San Francisco by holding adult classes four nights
a week and devoting a staff member to the social development of the community.
Throughout the whole phase 37 formal hours of English classes and 7 hours of
Environmental Education were conducted.
There has been a definite progression of the level of the Adults this phase. The phase
started off being taught at level 2 then towards the end was taught at as a level 3 class.
The classes were conducted on a conversational base. At the beginning of each class
vocabulary was introduced then sentences were formed. By the end of the class, using
role-play the students could be able to have a conversation on the topic to each other.
Now many of the adults can have a conversation with a tourist. The attendance of adults
this phase has been consistent having an average of 5 adults per class, compared to
last phase where an average of 3 students came to each class.. The women’s class
was a success this phase having an average of 6 women per class. It was apparent from
the initial class that the women felt more comfortable and confident in the class. The
adult’s syllabus this phase focused primarily on sentence structure and conversation.
The goal for the end of the phase was to be able to have a conversation with a tourist in
a hotel, starting with simple basic conversation starters to more focused topics including
directions, ordering and taking restaurant orders, money, and simple medical. With all
the hard work and review this has been achieved.
With the children it’s a little more frustrating. Working with children from ages five to
twelve the level that most kids are at is basic but advancing slowly. The number of
student attending classes is about the same as last phase having an average of 10 per
class. The classes consisted on basic vocabulary on topics they can relate to such as
59
food, sports, animals etc. The Environmental Education classes progressed well this
phase, the children really enjoy coming and participated a great deal with the average
being 11 students attending each class. This phase more ecological topics were taught
such as recycling, water cycle, and global warming.
The intercambio with Evergreen went well with 6 Evergreen staff and 5 Expedition
Members. There were 6 classes given and both the Expedition Members and Evergreen
staff enjoyed it very much.
9.5 Discussion
This phase has seen the appointment of a community intern to the expedition whose
primary role is to help expand the community work that the expedition is currently
undertaking.
GVI’s teaching and community involvement programs are invaluable tools in maintaining
relations between GVI and the local residents. These initiatives provide unique
opportunities and foster both cultural and environmental awareness.
The first week of phase is the training week for the new EMs and as such no classes
were taught this week. Classes began in the second week. Past phases have seen poor
attendances of women at the adult classes. Some women found it difficult to attend due
to family commitments, such as taking care of children, cooking dinner etc; it was
discovered last phase that some did not attend as they were intimidated or insecure in
the presence of the male students. As a result this phase saw the introduction of a
women only class taught once week.
This class has become quite a success having a core group of about seven women who
come almost every week. Four of these women only attend the women’s class. The
attendance for the adult classes has been consistent this phase. With the consistency
and review of each lesson taught there has been a noticeable difference, the students
have a much stronger base and are able to hold a short conversation and give directions
in English. The adults are also not as withheld in speaking English and many now
volunteer for role-play in class. The community intern taught classes Monday through
Wednesday alone, while on Thursdays classes were taught by the EMs with the help
and supervision of the intern. From the first week of the phase there were four EMs
60
really interested in teaching the adults and were always very enthusiastic and came
every week up until week 7 seven when two of them decided to leave the expedition.
The Children’s English program has also been successful this phase. In addition to the
adult program there were three EMs very interested and enthusiastic about teaching the
children’s classes. Throughout the 10 weeks were able to develop a bond with the
children and spent time talking to them informally in English and playing with them when
in town. The children’s classes had a less consistent attendance rate than the adults.
Some classes had attendances of 25 whilst others managed only five. There was a core
group of about seven children who always attended, ready to work while others would be
less consistent. Another problem was children disrupting the classes. It was mostly the
boys who did this while the other students were prepared to learn immediately. With the
help of Mauren, the mother to two of the children who came to the classes, the disruptive
elements were talked to and calmed down. The children in question rarely attend
anymore and classes run much more smoothly.
The environmental education classes have been a success with the help from Jon,
Manuel and the EMs. Many interesting lessons have been taught, such as migratory
birds, recycling, the water cycle, and endangered animals native to Costa Rica. This
phase the environmental class has been taught somewhat differently. The first half of the
class the lesson is taught using many visuals and getting all the students involved. The
second half is usually when a game pertaining to the topic is played, followed by a
relevantly themed story told by Manuel. This class is one of the children’s favorites,
every week they can’t wait to learn a new topic and to hear another story. One of the
Environmental Education topics taught was on hatchlings, so one weekend the children
from the class accompanied EMs and Staff to the beach to participate in some
excavations. Nine children attended and enjoyed digging the egg chambers and
breaking the eggs open, regardless of the smell. After the experience the group enjoyed
snacks prepared by the expedition.
In the first seven weeks, five EM’s committed to going to the Evergreen intercambio to
interact with the employees. Due to weather, only six sessions have been attended. The
intercambio at the Canopy has proceeded successfully, allowing both EMs and Canopy
staff to learn foreign languages and enjoy each other’s company.
61
Organized by the Expedition Members, we had a grand field day where over 30 children
and adults showed up. The games played consisted in the three-legged race, garlic and
spoon race, and dodge-ball. For the grand finale we had a thrilling soccer game, San
Fran against Cano Palma. Many adults showed up including the San Francisco womens
soccer team who ran out victorious.
With the new database created last phase all records of the classes have been tracked,
the present community staff as well as future ones can see what has already been
taught. This helps to see what topics need to be reviewed as well as to teach topics that
are relevant to past ones. The attendance and level of the students is also entered into
the database to track the progression of the teaching program and focus future lessons.
Due to the extreme weather and flooding, the base was evacuated twice for several
days. This caused two gaps in the classes; almost two weeks worth of classes were lost
causing an inconsistency with the topics taught resulting in a necessity to revise topics
after every gap in classes. This also led to members of the community believing classes
were inconsistent which may have resulted in a lack of interest. A community event that
was designed by the EMs, was intended for the day before the mid-phase break but
was not possible. As a result of the flooding and other outside influences, three of the
teachers decided to leave the expedition at this point. Despite difficulties this phase has
seen a marked progression amongst the students and with the program.
62
63
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68
11 Appendices
Appendix A Aquatic Trail Locations:
Distance Distance from start

AQT 01 1110 0
AQT 02 303 1110
CAÑO HAROLD
CHA 01 604 1413
CHA 02 1248 2017
CHA 03 718 3127
CHA 04 0 4003
CAÑO CHIQUERO
CCH 01 703 1413
CCH 02 343 2127
CCH 03 0 2470
CAÑO PALMA
CPA 01 1000 0
CPA 02 1000 1000
CPA 03 1000 2000
CPA 04 1000 3000
CPA 05 0 4000
Notes: All the distances are measured in meters
69

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GVI Costa Rica

Coastal Rainforest and Wildlife Expedition

Phase Report 074

11th October – 20th December 2007

Submitted in whole to:

Submitted in part to:

Jessica Armistead Expedition Member Josued David Chavarria Expedition Member

Lindsey Klassen Expedition Member

GVI Costa Rica Coastal Rainforest and Wildlife Expedition

Address: Estación Biológica Caño Palma, Tortuguero, Costa Rica

Web page: http://www.gvi.co.uk

Executive Summary ........................................................................................................ 3

• Document biodiversity of the area

2.3.2 Data Collection

Phase 074 Data Per Half Mile

2.8.2 Location of cameras

2.8.3 Setting the cameras

2.8.4 Checking the cameras

2.8.5 Data entering and analysis

3 Marine Turtle Monitoring and Conservation Programme

3.3.1 Study site

3.3.2 Pre-season preparations

3.3.4 Night surveys

3.3.5 Nest fate, nest survivorship and hatching success

3.3.6 Disguising nests

The results of this study can be found in the season report.

4 EBCP Resident Bird Project

• Name of study site

The study species targeted for data collection were as follows:

Agami Heron Agamia agami

Any notes on breeding plumage or behaviour

Time restriction Number of

Figure 1-2. Proportion of boats associated with tourism

6.3.2 Sapling collection

6.3.3 Bagging seeds and saplings

6.3.4 Nursery maintenance

To examine the species assemblage of arboreal and terrestrial mammals (>0.5 kg in

8.2.2 Specific objectives

8.3.2 Main study

8.3.3 Data recorded

General survey data recorded on survey was as follows:

The categories of recording were as follows:

Upon detection the following data was recorded:

9 Teaching Community Report

People of different nations increasingly utilize English as a common language in order to

9.2 Introduction to Environmental Education

The Environmental Education classes were given on Thursday afternoons at 14:30.

Aranda-Sánchez. J.M. 1981. Rastros de los Mamíferos Silvestres de México. Manual de

Bermúdez, F. & Hernández, C. 2004. Estudio de factibilidad para el desarrollo de

Cuarón, A.D. 2000. Effects of Land-Cover Changes on Mammals in a Neotropical

Emmons, L. 1989. Jaguar predation on chelonians. Journal of Herpetology 23: 311-314.

Hill, D. Hockin, D. Price, D. Tucker, G. Morris, R. and Treweek, J. (1997). Bird

Laurence, W.F. 1990. Comparative responses of five arboreal marsupials to tropical

NatureServe Explorer. 2006. Online encyclopedia of plants, animals, and ecosystems

Navarro-Serment, C.J., López-González, C.A., & Gallo-Reynoso, J.P. 2005. Occurrence

Redford, K.H. 1992. The Empty Forest. BioScience 42(6): 412-422.

Seymour, K.L. 1989. Panthera onca. Mammalian Species, 340: 1-9.

Troëng, S. & Rankin, E. 2005. Long-term conservation efforts contribute to positive

Weber, W. & Rabinowitz, A. 1996. A global perspective on large carnivore conservation.

Appendix A Aquatic Trail Locations:

Distance Distance from start

Notes: All the distances are measured in meters

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